Projected and Perceived Identities in Greek Diaspora Schools and the Role of Music in Cultivating Cultural Exchange
Peter Douskalis
Προφορική ανακοίνωση: ερευνητική εργασία
| Abstract |
In Greek diaspora schools in New York City, music plays a crucial role in shaping cultural identity, fostering a sense of belonging, and mediating the interaction between projected and perceived identities. This presentation explores how music functions as a tool for both cultural preservation and promotion in these educational settings, highlighting its sociological and communal impact through language and music participation. This study examines the ways in which Greek diaspora schools use language knowledge and acquisition to project an idealized cultural identity, one often rooted in nationalist narratives, historical continuity, and linguistic heritage. Through school performances, curriculum choices, and community events, educators and community leaders intentionally shape a collective identity that reinforces their definition of “Greekness”. However, students and their families may perceive and experience this identity differently, adapting it based on their own diasporic realities, multicultural influences, and personal affiliations. These tensions reveal a dynamic negotiation of identity, where music becomes both a bridge and a boundary between cultural authenticity and adaptation. From a sociological perspective, music in these schools contributes to the emotional and cognitive development of students, shaping their self-perception and connection to both their heritage and host culture. The participatory nature of musical activities, whether through singing, dance, or instrumental performance, fosters group collectiveness while also allowing space for individual expression. Music thus serves as a medium through which students internalize and reinterpret cultural narratives, demonstrating the fluid nature of identity in transnational contexts. Furthermore, this research highlights instances where Greek diaspora schools engage in musical exchanges with other cultural communities, using music as a means of intercultural dialogue. These collaborations challenge rigid identity constructs, allowing students to develop a more inclusive understanding of cultural belonging. By analyzing case studies of musical practices in Greek diaspora schools, this presentation underscores how music functions not only as a vehicle for cultural reproduction but also as a powerful tool for intercultural engagement and community building. Ultimately, this study contributes to broader discussions in music education, identity studies, and heritage language learning, offering insights into how educational spaces shape and negotiate diasporic identities through musical practices. |
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| Topics |
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| Keywords | Heritage language learning, intercultural education, identity, multicultural education, multimodal education |
| Presentation Language | English |
| Author(s) CV |
PETER DOUSKALIS peterdouskalis@gmail.com • (718) 593-1034 • www.peterdouskalis.com • New York, NY www.linkedin.com/peterdouskalis • https://soundsofcyprus.com • www.panelband.com CURRICULUM VITAE Highly accomplished Music and Fine Arts Instructor, Visiting Lecturer, and Production Director with over 13 years of experience. Recognized for outstanding contributions to Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, including a Grammy nomination in Musical Theatre. A dynamic educator and skilled musician, dedicated to enhancing the academic experience for all students. Combines real- world knowledge with a structured and scalable music curriculum program. Develops innovative strategies to push students beyond their boundaries through original compositions and improvisations. Demonstrates adaptive leadership, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment. Ensures alignment with industry standards in music theory and maintains academic integrity. • Successfully integrated real-world knowledge into a structured and scalable music curriculum program, enhancing students' understanding and appreciation of music. • Developed thoughtful strategies incorporating original compositions and improvisations to challenge students and expand their capabilities beyond traditional boundaries. • Exhibited adaptive leadership by providing direction and advocacy for the academic community, fostering a cooperative and inclusive work environment. • Aligned academic capabilities with industry standards in music theory, ensuring curricular coherence and maintaining a high level of academic integrity. • Conducted extensive research on the interconnection of multicultural music and music education, with a focus on intercultural relations and the experiences of immigrants and diaspora members. • Explored the use of music in the design and teaching of language as a heritage language, contributing to a global perspective on the role of music and language in identity formation. • Leveraged a successful career as a musician, including performances on Broadway, at Princeton University, and in Greece, to enrich the classroom experience and provide real-world insights to students. • Demonstrated exceptional time management and multitasking skills, balancing teaching responsibilities with high-profile show rehearsals and gigs. • Committed to improving the academic culture and experience for all students, fostering a passion for music and language education through engaging and innovative teaching methods. Core Competencies • Music Education • Language Education • Curriculum Design & Development • Teaching, Mentoring & Instruction • Music Education & Live Performances • Greek Music & Language • Student Assessment & Management • Music Theory • Greek Language & Culture • Music Performance • Rehearsal Management • Project Management • Leadership & Strategic Planning • Communication & Collaboration • Program Management Notable Achievements • Secured a contract after presenting an opportunity to Princeton University for a new multi-level concert and lecture series. • Distinguished performer with an impressive portfolio of On Broadway and off-Broadway credits, including leading roles in highly acclaimed productions such as "The Lion King," "Hamilton," "Almost Famous," "Caroline, or Change," and "SUFFS." • Proactively fostered artistic self-expression and facilitated growth in artistry, technical skills, and collaboration through engaging workshops and multimodal concert/lectures at prestigious institutions like Princeton University and Ionian University. • Delivered comprehensive pre-college and professional level training, leveraging in-depth knowledge of composition, performance, analysis, scholarship, and pedagogy. Successfully promoted students' competency within the New York City Department of Education. Education Ph.D., Music & Language Education, Candidate (Expected, 2024) Ionian University, Greece (via NYC) Research Area: Greek music as a resource in designing the teaching of Greek as heritage language in diaspora: action research in Greek community schools of New York.Master of Arts, Music Education, 2011 New York University, New York, NY Professional Achievement in the Graduate Program in Music Education, NYU Steinhardt Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies, 2009 Conservatory of Shenandoah University Dean’s List, 4 years. Received a 4-year Jazz Scholarship Treasurer of the Student Government Advanced Certification Program, 2017 NYS School Building Leader and School District Leader College of Saint Rose Certifications New York State Professional Certification – Music – K-12 New York State Professional Certification – Greek – 7-12 New York State Professional Certification – School District Leader New York State Initial Certification – School Building Leader (expired) Greek Language Proficiency – Council of Europe: Common European Framework of Reference for Languages - (CEFR) C2 Professional Experience 2022 – Present • NYC DEP A R TM EN T O F ED U CA T ION , BR ON X HIG H SCH OO L FO R BU SIN ES S • Bronx, NY Guitar & Music Technology (Tenured) | Music Teacher Teach a diverse range of courses, including Introduction to Music Technology, Advanced Music Technology, Musicianship, Beginner Guitar, and Life Skills Advisory, contributing to a well-rounded and holistic educational experience for students. Develop semester- long and year-long curricula for Introduction to Music Technology and Advanced Music Technology courses, providing students with a structured and comprehensive learning experience. Design and implement beginner guitar curricula, allowing students to develop foundational skills and fostering a passion for music. • Successfully built a new music program as a replacement for the founding music teacher, ensuring continuity and growth in music education at the school. • Conducted a thorough assessment of school needs and existing music inventory, documenting the findings for future reference. • Identified and flagged necessary materials required to establish a comprehensive sequence of guitar courses, facilitating student learning and skill development. • Procured essential materials through efficient purchase ordering, ensuring the availability of resources for the successful implementation of the music program. • Led the establishment and expansion of a music technology program, recognizing the importance of incorporating modern technology in music education. 2013 – 2022 • NYC DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, EDWARD R. MURROW HIGH SCHOOL, THE MUSIC INSTITUTE • Bronx, NY Director of Guitar Studies (Tenured) | Department Coordinator Directed and led the Guitar Studies department, driving program excellence and continuously developing the curriculum to integrate innovative educational practices. Successfully substituted for other music staff in courses such as Music Technology, Gospel Choir, Senior Chorus, and Introduction to Music Theory, maintaining continuity in the music program and supporting student learning. Served as a dedicated resource for music theory and music notation, fostering collaboration and empowering students to actively participate in their own learning journey. • Designed and delivered guitar-focused courses, utilizing live performances and engaging lectures to create a dynamic and hands- on learning environment. • Integrated pedagogy into the performance curriculum, providing students with a holistic educational experience and offering positive reinforcement when exploring in-depth concepts. • Assessed student performance, utilizing benchmark assessments to improve student achievement and provide instructional support tailored to individual learning needs. Implemented learning-centered teaching strategies to engage students and foster critical thinking skills. • Modeled musicianship and professionalism to inspire self-discovery and personal growth throughout students' academic careers. • Managed Jazz and Rock Band ensembles as the Instrumental Music Department Coordinator, offering culturally responsive musical opportunities for students to explore and develop live performance abilities. • Collaborated with school administration as a member of the Curriculum Development Committee, providing input and leveraging strong interpersonal communication skills to inform decision-making on program structure and design.• Organized and facilitated additional educational programs and community outreach initiatives, including debate and athletic activities, to enhance the holistic educational experience for students. • Defined key performance areas and improved curriculum and instructional techniques to provide a well-rounded and enriching teaching and learning environment. • Provided comprehensive instruction in various courses, including AP Music Theory, Beginner Guitar, Intermediate Guitar, Guitar Ensemble, Music in Our Lives, and Jazz Ensemble. 2011 – 2013 • NYC DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, HIGH SCHOOL FOR COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP • Bronx, NY Founding Music Teacher Delivered guidance and inspirational educational leadership for Music History, Jazz Band, String Ensemble, and Rock Band curriculum. Provided instruction in General Music, Guitar, Percussion, String Ensemble, Rock Band, Jazz Band, Musical Theatre Pit Orchestra, Music Theory, AP Music Theory, and Music Technology. Provided goal-focused academic advisement and promoted academic success. Aggregated student data, modifying instructional focus to meet student needs and accomplish academic goals. • Elevated academic standards, integrating learning-centered teaching strategies into a comprehensive curriculum that increased student satisfaction ratings. • Implemented continuous improvements to optimize the music program and supported student learning and persistence. • Diversified instructional methods and integrated a more student-centered approach that appealed to a diverse student population. Utilized evidence-based methods to bring the curriculum to life and encourage creativity. • Weighed organizational capability against objectives to improve program efficacy. Worked collaboratively with fellow educators to promote self-discovery for students throughout their academic career. • Instructed Music Theory-based courses, providing educational guidance for advanced students regarding professional music performance and inspiring further engagement with music as an art form. • Delivered multi-functional educational leadership, including providing oversight for extra-curricular activities such as Debate Team, Soccer Coach, Geometry Tutor, Arts Liaison, and CAASS Administrator. 2010 – 2013 • NEW YORK CITY GUITAR SCHOOL • New York, NY Instructor Demonstrated exceptional adaptability and commitment to student success by teaching private lessons to students of varying ages and skill levels, traveling to their homes in different neighborhoods of New York City, including the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, SOHO, Little Italy, and the West Village. • Successfully developed and implemented a strategic plan to enhance educational programs for the Community Music Program, resulting in increased student engagement and program growth. • Engaged a diverse population of students by incorporating appropriate music and instructional aids, effectively simplifying complex music theory principles and enhancing learning outcomes. • Led private lessons, group classes, and children's classes in the Midtown Manhattan location, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment. • Expanded program reach and impact by teaching private lessons, group classes, and children's classes in the Queens, NYC location, catering to the diverse needs and interests of the community. 2008 – 2009 • FAIRFAX COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS • Fairfax County, VA Substitute Teacher Managed classrooms and maintained a positive learning environment as a substitute teacher. Adapted quickly to various teaching styles and curricula, ensuring seamless transitions in the absence of regular classroom teachers. Effectively managed student behavior and maintained discipline, ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment. Maintained accurate records of attendance, assignments, and student progress, ensuring effective communication with regular teachers. Exhibited flexibility and adaptability in handling unexpected situations and changes in daily schedules. • Established rapport with students by fostering a supportive and inclusive classroom atmosphere, promoting student engagement and participation. • Implemented lesson plans provided by regular teachers, delivering instruction and facilitating student learning in a clear and concise manner. • Provided individualized support to students with diverse learning needs, fostering their academic growth and development. • Worked with teachers, administrators, and staff to ensure continuity and consistency in the educational experience for students. • Earned accolades from students, teachers, and administrators for professionalism, reliability, and dedication to student success.2005 – 2009 • CONTEMPORARY MUSIC CENTER • Haymarket, VA Music Instructor Instructed music theory, instrumental techniques, and performance skills to students of various age groups and skill levels. Utilized a variety of instructional methods and materials, including sheet music, audio recordings, and technology-based tools, to enhance student learning and comprehension. Fostered a supportive and inclusive learning environment, promoting collaboration, creativity, and self-expression among students. Collaborated with fellow music instructors and participated in departmental meetings to share ideas, resources, and best practices. • Created engaging and interactive lesson plans that catered to individual student needs, fostering a love for music and encouraging continuous improvement. • Provided constructive feedback and guidance to students, helping them develop proper technique, musicality, and confidence in their abilities. • Organized and directed student performances, recitals, and ensemble groups, showcasing students' progress and fostering a sense of accomplishment. • Developed strong interpersonal relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, maintaining open lines of communication and addressing any concerns or questions promptly. • Stayed updated with current trends and developments in music education, attending workshops, conferences, and professional development opportunities to enhance teaching approaches and strategies. • Received recognition and appreciation from students, parents, and administrators for dedication, passion, and the ability to create a positive and enriching musical experience for students. 2003 – 2005 • CLASSIC AXE GUITAR SHOP • Manassas, VA Founding Music Teacher Pioneered the establishment of a music program from the ground up, creating a comprehensive curriculum and building a strong foundation for future music education. Developed and implemented innovative teaching methods and strategies that aligned with the unique vision and goals of the music program. Ensured the delivery of high-quality instruction and fostering a collaborative teaching environment. Worked to secure funding and resources necessary for the development and growth of the music program. • Established a state-of-the-art music studio, equipped with the latest technology and instruments to enhance learning. • Created partnerships with local organizations and businesses to provide performance opportunities and enrich the musical experiences of students in the community. • Established strong relationships with parents and students, providing ongoing communication and support to ensure their active involvement and satisfaction with the music program. Implemented assessment and evaluation methods to monitor student progress and measure the effectiveness of the music curriculum, adjusting as needed to ensure optimal learning outcomes. Visiting Speaker & Guest Lecturer Engagements BROOKLYN COLLEGE • Brooklyn, NY **Invited every year to the college as a visiting speaker or guest lecturer** Visiting Speaker (2016) Served as a Subject Matter Expert, developing and delivering academic program content to raise proficiencies among first-year teachers. Collaborated with curriculum development teams to align program content with educational standards and best practices. Designed and delivered engaging workshops and training sessions on various teaching techniques and methodologies. Provided guidance and mentoring in student-centered teaching strategies. Mentored and coached first-year teachers in implementing student-centered teaching strategies. Conducted regular classroom observations and provided constructive feedback to enhance teaching effectiveness. Supported teachers in designing and implementing student-centered lesson plans and activities. Prepared all course materials, adapting pedagogy to diverse classroom needs. • Formulated and implemented a comprehensive academic program to enhance the skills and knowledge of first-year teachers. • Developed and prepared comprehensive course materials, including lesson plans, handouts, and assessments. • Adapted teaching strategies and materials to cater to the diverse learning needs and styles of students. • Ensured that all course materials were aligned with curriculum objectives and provided opportunities for student engagement and participation. • Presented lectures and delivered learning strategies promoting the application of learned principles to real-life classroom scenarios. • Conducted engaging lectures and interactive sessions to facilitate student understanding and application of learned principles. • Incorporated real-life classroom scenarios and case studies to enhance the practical application of knowledge. • Implemented various learning strategies, such as group work, simulations, and hands-on activities, to promote active learning and critical thinking skills.Substitute Teacher | Guitar Practicum for Music Education majors (2016) Worked collaboratively with teachers and faculty, providing positive reinforcement for students in the Music Education program. Fostered a supportive and encouraging learning environment for students in the Music Education program. Partnered with teachers and faculty to provide positive reinforcement and motivation to students. Offered guidance and support to students in their academic and personal development. Utilized technology, multimedia resources, and interactive activities to make the learning process more engaging and interactive. Encouraged student collaboration and discussion to foster a deeper understanding of core concepts and promote critical thinking skills. • Enhanced learning strategies, delivering an extensive curriculum, Guitar Practicum for Music Education majors, and aligning core concepts with state requirements. • Developed and delivered extensive curriculum for Guitar Practicum, aligning with state requirements and educational standards. • Implemented innovative and effective learning strategies to enhance student engagement and understanding. • Integrated a variety of instructional methods, including hands-on activities, group discussions, and multimedia resources, to cater to diverse learning styles. • Incorporated interactive learning to enhance the educational experience for students. • Created a dynamic and interactive learning environment to promote student participation and engagement. Guest Lecturer (2014) Created a comprehensive and engaging academic program on multicultural music curriculum and dance integration in the classroom. Developed course materials, including lesson plans, presentations, and interactive activities, to facilitate student learning and understanding. Incorporated a variety of multicultural music genres and dance styles to promote cultural appreciation and diversity in the classroom. Presented lectures and workshops on multicultural music curriculum and dance, targeting educators and students. • Delivered engaging and informative lectures on the importance of multicultural music curriculum and dance in the classroom. • Conducted interactive workshops to provide practical strategies and techniques for integrating multicultural music and dance into lesson plans. • Collaborated with educators and students to explore the benefits and challenges of implementing multicultural music curriculum and dance in various educational settings. • Guided and mentored educators on effectively incorporating multicultural music and dance into their existing curricula. • Conducted classroom observations and provided constructive feedback to educators, promoting continuous improvement in their teaching practices. • Evaluated student learning outcomes and assessed the impact of multicultural music curriculum and dance in the classroom. • Devised assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes related to multicultural music curriculum and dance. • Analyzed data and provided feedback on the effectiveness of the program in promoting cultural understanding and appreciation among students. • Partnered with educational institutions to gather data and conduct research on the impact of multicultural music curriculum and dance on student engagement and achievement. Grants & Awards • Auspices of the Consulate General of Greece – PANEL – September 2023 – Ongoing • New York Foundation for the Arts – Fiscal Sponsorship for artist project – Sounds of Cyprus – Summer 2023 – Ongoing • Sabbatical – 6 months – New York City Department of Education, Spring 2023 • Auspices of the Consulate General of the Republic of Cyprus – Sounds of Cyprus – May 2022 – Ongoing • Grammy Nomination – Musician – Caroline, or Change – New Broadway Cast Album, Broadway Records, 2022 Publications • Douskalis, Peter, Academic Paper: "Interculturally responsive teaching: Towards a new philosophy problematizing intercultural music education and multiple identities.” - Conference Proceedings paper for the World Conference of the International Society for Music Education. Victoria, Australia. 2022. • Douskalis, Peter; Dionyssiou, Zoe, Dr., Academic Paper: “Η διδασκαλία της γλώσσας ως πολιτισµού: προβληµατισµοί και προτάσεις για µία µουσικογλωσσική προσέγγιση” - Accepted to be published in the 35th International Internet Conference of Humanities and Social Sciences on "Greek language" journal by the Ινστιτούτο Πολιτισµού, Δηµοκρατίας και Εκπαίδευσης. Ionian University • Douskalis, Peter, Academic Paper: “Culture Crisis –continued marginalization enabled by federal US education policy and New York State School Music Association”. Conference Proceedings paper for the World Conference of the International Society for Music Education. Baku, Azerbaijan. July 15 –July 20, 2018.• Douskalis, Peter, TEDxTalk (speech)- “Sounds of Cyprus –Using Music to Bridge Intercultural Relations” TED Talks: TEDxHerndon, speech. Published June 16, 2017. • Douskalis, Peter, Music Book: “Hal Leonard Essential Elements Guitar Ensembles: Multicultural Songs”. Hal Leonard Corporation. August 22, 2016. • Douskalis, Peter, TEDxTalk (speech): “Systematic Inequality in Education –Advocating Change through Music” TED Talks: • TEDxTalk, speech, recorded March 21, 2016. • Douskalis, Peter, Academic Paper: “The Multiple Layers of Society and the Multiple Layers of Culture”. Conference • Proceedings paper for the World Conference of the International Society for Music Education. Thessaloniki, Greece. July 15 –July 20, 2012. Professional Broadway & Theatrical Experience • Almost Famous - Substitute Guitarist Book 1 (November 2022 - January 2023) Lead Guitar Book: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin • Hamilton - Substitute Guitarist (August 2022 - Present) Guitar Book: Classical Guitar, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Tenor Banjo • The Lion King - Substitute Guitarist (June 2018 - Present) Guitar Book: Classical Guitar, Electric Guitar, Ukulele, Soprano Kalimbas • Mrs. Doubtfire - Substitute Guitarist Book 1 (December 2021 - May 2022) Lead Guitar Book: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Classical Guitar, Semi-Hollow Body Jazz Guitar • Caroline, or Change - Substitute Guitarist (November 2021 - January 2022) Recorded guitarist on the New Broadway Cast Album Grammy-nominated participant on the cast album recording Guitar Book: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Classical Guitar, Mandolin • Mean Girls - Substitute Guitarist Book 1 (August 2018 - Close) Guitar Book: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Semi-hollow body Jazz Guitar, Ukulele, Tenor Banjo • School of Rock - Substitute Guitarist Book 3 (October 2017 - January 2019) Guitar Book: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Soprano Recorder • Dear Evan Hansen - Substitute Guitarist Book 2 (July 2017 - August 2018) Lead Guitar book: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar Off Broadway Experience • Off-Broadway production of SUFFS – Substitute Guitarist – April 2022 – May 2022 • Off-Broadway production of The Office! A Parody Musical – Substitute Guitarist – March 2019 – June 2019 • Off-Broadway New York Musical Festival Production of Bad Ass Beauty – A Rock Opera – Guitar Chair– July 2018 • Off-Broadway production of Desperate Measures – Guitar Chair – December 2017 • Off-Broadway production of Desperate Measures – Substitute Guitarist – October 2017 – November 2017 Music Composition Experience • Play: “Raving Reason” , Composer (2022) - Eclipses Group Theater NY – Laguardia Performing Arts Center • Documentary: “Why They Kill” - Film score composer (2018) - Aired on Fox nationwide • Short Film: “Dog Happy” – Composer (2008) - Independent Film Additional Music Experience • ODYSSEY - The Acting Company (August 2023) - Additional Arrangements and Guitar Coach Provided cultural consultation to the show's composer. Coached actors in live guitar playing. Recorded various instruments for the show's recording: guitars, bouzoukia, tzourades, laouta, ouds, dumbek, and daouli • Mozart: Her Story - Carnegie Hall Concert (March 2023) - Guitarist Performed in two concerts at Carnegie Hall• Hamilton - The Philip Tour (January 2023) - Substitute Guitarist Performed in five shows • The Dorothy Dandridge Musical - Carnegie Hall Concert (July 2022) - Guitarist Performed in two concerts at Carnegie Hall • Mean Girls - First National Broadway Tour (June 2022) - Substitute Guitarist Performed in eight shows • Broadway Inspirational Voices - Holiday Concert at Symphony Space (December 2021) - Guitarist • A Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong musical in Miami (February - March 2020) - Recorded Tenor Banjo Player Professional Performance Experience • Acclaimed professional performing and recording musician with national and international recognition, featured in esteemed publications such as Just Jazz Guitar Magazine, Jazz Journal UK, Los Angeles Jazz Scene, JazzChicago, and Cadence Magazine. • Showcased exceptional musical talent and artistry as a representative of the Consulate General of the Republic of Cyprus and the Consulate General of Greece, participating in prestigious events and performances. • Worked with renowned musicians and ensembles, contributing to cultural exchange and promotion of jazz music across borders. • Demonstrated versatility and proficiency in various jazz styles, captivating audiences with captivating performances that highlight technical mastery and expressive interpretation. • Recorded and released albums that garnered critical acclaim, showcasing original compositions and captivating arrangements that push the boundaries of jazz music. • Maintained a rigorous performance schedule, touring nationally and internationally, delivering exceptional live performances that captivate audiences and showcase the depth of musicality. • Engaged in continuous professional development, attending workshops and masterclasses with world-class jazz musicians to refine skills and stay at the forefront of the jazz music scene. • Received accolades and accolades for contributions to the jazz community, recognized for artistic excellence and dedication to the advancement of jazz music as a respected and influential genre. Notable Performances: • Panel – Co-founder, Project/Music Director, Multi-instrumentalist, Video Editor – Concerts and Workshops – 2022 - Present • 31st Avenue Open Streets Collective – Community Engagement Concerts – 2023 • Academy of Hellenic Paideia – School Community Performance – May 2023 • Sounds of Cyprus – Co-founder, Project/Music Director, Multi-instrumentalist, Video Editor – Concerts and Workshops – 2016 - Present • Athens Square Park – Community Engagement Performance – September 2023 • Ionian University – Presentation of Traditional Cypriot Music – June 2023 • Queens Night Market – May 2023 • Kehila Kedosha Janina Greek Jewish Festival – May 2023 • Gantry Park State Plaza – April 2023 • Brooklyn Youth Chorus – Two Workshops and One Concert – October - December 2022 • Princeton University – Presentation of Traditional Cypriot Music – November 2022 • Athens Square Park – Community Engagement Performance – August 2022 • Times Square Alliance – Concert – July 2022 • Hellenic Cultural Center – Concert – June 2022 • Hellenic Cultural Center – Concert – April 2022 • Athens Square Park – Community Engagement Performance – September 2021 • DROM – Concert Presentation – September 2021 • DROM – Concert Presentation – June 2021 • Gantry Park State Plaza – Concert – April 2021 • Olympism For Humanity Alliance – Fundraiser Concert – March 2017 • Synolon – International and Greek Music – Guitarist and Music Director for Pericles Kanaris – 2012 - 2022 ERTWorld – Up for Air – Televised Concert – January 2023 Symphony Space – Up for Air – Concert – June 2022Encore – Drom – Concert Series – Fall 2019 Stavros Niarchos Center – NOSTOS Festival – Athens, Greece – June 2019 Road to Athens – Drom – Concert Series – Spring 2019 SOS Children’s Fund Greece – Concert – January 2019 Consulate of Greece in New York - Road to Athens – Concert – Spring 2019 Gazarte – Athens, Greece – February 2018 Zinc Bar – Residency – 2017 Pallas Theatre – Athens, Greece – November 2016 The Cutting Room – Residency – 2016 DROM – Residency – 2015 Tribeca Performing Arts Center – November 2014 • Alarga – Greek and Turkish Music – 2018 - Present • Hooshere – International and Armenian Music – Guitarist – 2013 - Present • Trapped In Static – American Indie Rock Music – Guitarist and Cowriter – 2011 – 2020 Television, Radio & Print News Experience • Voiceover actor: Freewave TV - 2022 • Television jingles: Actors Technique NYC - 2020 • Documentary: “Panama: A Foreign Home" - Audio Mixing Engineer – 2017 • Neo Magazine and Radio Neo – music columnist and radio producer – September 2010 – September 2013 Volunteer Experience CosmosFM 91.5FM WNYE – Cutting Strings – Radio Host – July 2022 - March 2023 • Served as volunteer radio host and audio/visual console engineer. Guitars Not Guns Music Program – NGO 501c3 – New York City Chapter President – February 2016 – March 2017 • Delivered music equipment and lessons to underprivileged children and fostered engagement in music and the arts. Olympism For Humanity Alliance – NGO 501c3 – Ambassador – July 2015 – 2018 • Mentored individuals, served as videographer, translator and interpreter as well as leading several key projects. Accessible Cypriot Education – project leader – July 2015 – 2018 • Led a humanitarian project and raised funds and school supplies for underprivileged youth and schools in Cypriot villages through the O4H Alliance. • More information: Article on Peter Douskalis' involvement TED OTP Project – Translator – July 2015 – 2018 • Translated TED talks from English-Greek and Greek-English. • More information: TED Profile TEDxERMurrowHigh – Organizer – August 2016 –2018 • Officially licensed TEDx Youth Organizer. • More information: TEDx Event Conferences & Presentations • Multimodal Lecture/Concert Presentation, ‘Sounds of Cyprus: a presentation of traditional Cypriot music’, Ionian University, Greece, 2022 • Multimodal Lecture/Concert Presentation, ‘Sounds of Cyprus: a presentation of traditional Cypriot music’, Princeton University, 2022 • ‘Curriculum Mapping and Backward design’, Ionian University, Guest Lecturer, 2023 • ‘Music Education and EdTech’, Brooklyn College, Guest lecturer, 2023 • ‘Music Education and EdTech’, Brooklyn College, Guest lecturer, 2021 • ‘Multicultural Music Curriculum and Dance in the Classroom’ – Queens College, Guest Lecturer, 2017 • CollegeBoard AP Annual Conference, Washington DC, Conference Presenter, 2017 “Using dance to teach asymmetrical meters in AP Music Theory” • TEDxHerndon, TED Talks, Virginia, United States, Conference Presenter, 2017 “Sounds of Cyprus, Using Music to BridgeIntercultural Relations” • TEDxHerndon 2017, Difficult Conversations, Herndon, VA, 2017 • Queens College, Aaron Copland School of Music, Artistic Citizenship and Urban Music Education, New York City, USA, • Conference Presenter, 2017 o “Creating an inclusive curriculum – multicultural music and intercultural harmony” • ‘First-year Teacher Practices’, Brooklyn College, Guest lecturer, 2016 • Substitute Teacher, Guitar Practicum for Music Education majors, Brooklyn College, 2016 • International Society for Music Education, World Conference, Glasgow, UK, Conference Presenter, 2016 “Culture Crisis and Culture Praxis” • TEDxHerndon, TED Talks, Virginia, United States, Conference Presenter, 2016 “Systematic Inequality in Education, Advocating Change Through Music” • TEDxHerndon, 2016, Herndon, VA, 2016 • 32nd International Society of Music Education World Conference, Glasgow, Scotland, 2016 • Olympism For Humanity Alliance, Symposium and Summit, Olympia, Greece, Conference Presenter, 2015 “Interdisciplinary teaching and Multicultural Education” • ‘Multicultural Music Curriculum and Dance in the Classroom’, Brooklyn College, Guest lecturer, 2014 • International Society for Music Education, World Conference, Thessaloniki, Greece, Conference Presenter, 2014 “The Multiple Layers of Society and The Multiple Layers of Culture” • 30th International Society of Music Education World Conference, Thessaloniki, Greece, 2012 Languages English, Native Greek, Bi-lingual Fluent (C2) Italian, Intermediate |